New York Releases Climate Action Plan

On November 9, Governor David Paterson announced New York State’s Climate Action Plan. The plan calls for an 80 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by 2050. This includes a required 40 percent emission reduction by 2030 to ensure reductions are on track. Completed after a 10-month study, it will require a doubling of renewable energy sources by 2030 and stricter construction codes to foster greater energy efficiency. Coinciding with these environmental and energy policies, the plan estimates 25 to 30 percent growth in state gross domestic product through 2030.

The announcement marks the start of a public comment period which lasts for 90 days. The plan is the result of Gov. Paterson’s 2009 Executive Order 24 which formally established the emissions reduction goal and the Climate Action Council (CAC). The CAC is scheduled to release a macroeconomic analysis of the plan in 2011.